This year’s Robarts Research Retreat will take place on Wednesday, June 26th 2024 at the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre in King’s College! Join us for an engaging day filled with captivating pitches and posters on cutting-edge research being conducted at Robarts!
Summarized Program
Keynote SPEAKER
Dr. Gordon Guyatt is a distinguished Canadian physician and academic, renowned for his pioneering contributions to evidence-based medicine (EBM). Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Dr. Guyatt completed his Bachelor of Science (BSc) at the University of Toronto, followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) at McMaster University. He further specialized in internal medicine and later obtained a Master of Science (MSc) in Design, Measurement, and Evaluation.
Dr. Guyatt’s professional career is deeply rooted in McMaster University, where he serves as a professor in Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences. He is widely credited with coining the term “evidence-based medicine,” a revolutionary concept that emphasizes the use of clinical research and evidence in making informed medical decisions. Beyond this, Dr. Guyatt played a crucial role in the development of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, a framework now adopted by over 90 organizations globally for developing clinical practice guidelines.
As one of Canada’s most cited researchers, with over 1,000 publications, Dr. Guyatt is considered a world authority in health-related quality-of-life research, study design, systematic reviews, and guideline development. His work has significantly advanced these fields, and he has played a leading role in the development of several highly successful disease-specific health-related quality-of-life instruments.
Dr. Guyatt’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada, acknowledging his transformative impact on medical practice through EBM. His dedication to improving healthcare through rigorous research and education continues to inspire medical professionals globally, cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in modern medicine.
WORKSHOP HOST
Dr. Parshati Patel is a dynamic astrophysicist turned science communicator, author, and space artist. She is a sought-after storyteller renowned for her award-winning public education and outreach efforts. With over a decade of experience, she has delivered more than 90 invited talks, organized over 300 public events, and participated in more than 110 media interviews, fostering a passion for space among the public, particularly youth. Originally from Ahmedabad, India, Parshati moved to Canada in 2006, earning her Hons. BSc in Astronomy & Physics from the University of Toronto, and her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Astronomy, Planetary Science and Exploration from Western University.
After completing her Ph.D., Dr. Patel transitioned from research to science communication. She previously has worked at Western University’s Institute for Earth and Space Exploration as an Educational Outreach and Communications Specialist and on assignment to the Canadian Space Agency as the Program Designer and Education Advisor in the Youth STEM Initiatives team. Currently, she works as a freelance professional, bringing her expertise to diverse organizations and audiences. She is also an Adjunct Research Professor in the Faculty of Education at Western University, where she investigates the impact of STEM outreach and informal programs on youth.
In addition to consulting for science books, she has authored a children’s book called ‘My Books of Stars and Planets’ with DK Publishing. Parshati serves on the Board of Advisors for Students for Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) – Canada and Zenith Canada Pathways. She holds a Professional Certificate in Communications and Public Relations as well as Certificate in Digital Communications, Innovative Thinking and Project Management from Western Continuing Studies.
When she isn’t communicating science, she is exploring the world of SciArt using fluid art techniques to create space and nature-inspired paintings. She uses her creative skills to communicate science and inspire people to be curious about their surroundings. She’s a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion in STEM, tirelessly working to uplift women and minorities.
Robarts Association of Trainees 